Messages to Young People - PDF Free Download

Information about this Book Overview This ebook is provided by the Ellen G. White Estate. It is included in the larger free Online Books collection on the Ellen G. White Estate Web site. About the Author Ellen G. White (1827-1915) is considered the most widely translated American author, her works having been published in more than 160 languages. She wrote more than 100,000 pages on a wide variety of spiritual and practical topics. Guided by the Holy Spirit, she exalted Jesus and pointed to the Scriptures as the basis of one s faith. Further Links A Brief Biography of Ellen G. White About the Ellen G. White Estate End User License Agreement The viewing, printing or downloading of this book grants you only a limited, nonexclusive and nontransferable license for use solely by you for your own personal use. This license does not permit republication, distribution, assignment, sublicense, sale, preparation of derivative works, or other use. Any unauthorized use of this book terminates the license granted hereby. Further Information For more information about the author, publishers, or how you can support this service, please contact the Ellen G. White Estate at mail@whiteestate.org. We are thankful for your interest and feedback and wish you God s blessing as you read. i

Preface In the olden days, when Jerusalem was to be rebuilt, the prophet, in vision, heard one heavenly messenger saying to another, Run, speak to this young man. And so, in these days, the young men and young women of the Advent movement have been given an important part to act in the closing drama of earth s history. The Lord has appointed the youth to be his helping hand. Testimonies for the Church 7:64. With such an army of workers as our youth, rightly trained, might furnish, how soon the message of a crucified, risen, and sooncoming Saviour might be carried to the whole world! Education, page 271. Such messages as these have been coming to the young people of this movement, through the spirit of prophecy, from the very beginning of our work. The Lord s chosen instrument for the manifestation of this gift, Mrs. Ellen G. White, was a girl of only seventeen when she began her work. She knew the struggles of childhood and youth with the powers of darkness, and she knew the life of victory in Christ. Many messages of instruction, sympathy, reproof, and encouragement have come from her pen, addressed directly to the young people. And these messages, always directing the minds of the youth to Christ and to his word as the only source of strength in building noble Christian manhood and womanhood, have done much to foster the spirit of consecration that has characterized so many of our young people. It was in 1892 and 1893 that messages were given, suggesting that our young people should be organized into bands and societies for Christian work. From these suggestions has developed the Young People s Society of Missionary Volunteers, which has proved to be such a lifting and holding power in the lives of the Advent youth all [8] around the world. While much that Sister White has written for our young people has been published in her books, many articles that appeared in the iii

Youth s Instructor and in other places have not been preserved in permanent form. These instructions are a precious heritage, and should be in the hands of all our young people of today. The General Conference Missionary Volunteer Department has, therefore, gone over all that she has written in our periodicals from the beginning of her work, and has made selections of matter pertaining to young people and young people s problems. While it has not always been possible to preserve the entire article, care has been exercised to make such selections as would give clearly the author s ideas on the subject treated. To make a well-balanced book of instruction, we have also included much material already in book form, but not widely distributed to the young people. The work of gathering and arranging the articles comprising this volume was entered into unitedly by the Trustees of the Ellen G. White Publications and the Secretaries of the Missionary Volunteer Department. Through the painstaking efforts of the Southern Publishing Association, this counsel is sent forth in this attractive form. It is hoped that the interest of our young people in this book will lead them to a careful study of all the messages that have come to the remnant church through the spirit of prophecy. It is our most earnest prayer that these messages may be a great strength to the young people of the advent movement all round the world, in perfecting Christian character, and in giving new impetus toward the completion of our great task The Advent message to all the world in this generation. [9] M. E. Kern, Secretary of General Conference Missionary Volunteer Department.

Contents Information about this Book............................ i Preface............................................. iii Introduction.......................................... xix Chapter 1 Building Character for Eternity............. 20 A Faithful Friend................................... 21 Section 1 God s Purpose for the Youth.................. 23 Chapter 2 A Call to the Youth........................ 24 Called to a High Destiny........................... 24 Be Light Bearers.................................. 25 Cherished Broad Ideas............................. 26 The Call to Enlist................................. 26 Essential Elements of Character...................... 27 Chapter 3 Seeking to Please Him..................... 28 Chapter 4 Standards of Success...................... 29 Faithful Integrity.................................. 29 Complete Consecration............................ 30 Assert Your Liberty................................ 30 Complete Surrender................................ 31 Choosing Your Destiny............................. 32 Heart-Searching Questions......................... 32 Chapter 5 Our Day of Opportunity................... 34 The Kind of Workers Needed....................... 34 Our Source of Efficiency........................... 35 Righteousness Within.............................. 35 Chapter 6 Heights that May be Attained................ 37 Religion the Basis of Life........................... 37 High Responsibilities............................... 37 Influence of Religion.............................. 38 Our Stewardship of Talents......................... 39 A High Ideal to Reach............................. 40 Channels of God s Grace........................... 40 Chapter 7 Standards of Efficiency..................... 41 Qualifying for Service.............................. 41 Cleverness not Piety............................... 42 v

vi Messages to Young People The Chosen Agency............................... 43 Chapter 8 Climbing the Heights...................... 44 Daily Advancement............................... 44 Meeting Obstacles................................. 44 Chapter 9 Partnership With God...................... 46 Reaching Higher and Higher........................ 46 Section 2 The Conflict with Sin........................ 49 Chapter 10 Satan, a Mighty Foe...................... 50 Satan in Disguise.................................. 50 The Battle for Each Soul............................ 51 Chapter 11 The Character of the Conflict.............. 53 Call to Oppose Powers of Evil....................... 53 Aid of the Holy Spirit.............................. 54 The Price of Victory............................... 54 Chapter 12 Satan s Special Effort..................... 56 Confidence in Self Fatal............................. 57 Destroying Confidence.............................. 57 Control of the Mind............................... 58 The Curtain Lifted................................ 58 Chapter 13 Temptation No Excuse for Sin............. 60 Chapter 14 Fortitude................................ 61 In the Strength of the Lord........................... 61 Chapter 15 The Soul Temple........................ 63 God s Ideal....................................... 63 Desecrated Shrines................................ 64 Degradation Through Sensual Indulgence............. 64 Help in Temptation................................ 64 Chapter 16 Ye Are Not Your Own.................... 66 Results of Complete Consecration................... 66 All Our Powers Belong to Him...................... 66 The Price of a Soul................................. 67 Decision Called For............................... 68 Chapter 17 True Conversion......................... 69 Not Feeling but a Changed Life...................... 69 Practicality of Genuine Religion..................... 70 The Sanctified Life................................ 70 The Cords of Satan................................. 71 Chapter 18 Counsel to an Indulged Daughter........... 72

Contents vii Controlling the Imagination......................... 72 Subduing Passions and Affections................... 73 Chapter 19 Strength of Character Through Conflict...... 75 Purity Not Dependent on Circumstances.............. 76 Death Before Dishonor.............................. 77 Chapter 20 Resisting Temptation..................... 78 Needless Temptations to Be Shunned................. 78 Duty Above Inclination............................ 79 Chapter 21 The Deceitfulness of Sin.................. 80 Self-Examination................................. 80 Chapter 22 A Warning Against Skepticism............. 82 Danger of Association with Skeptics................. 82 Self-Confidence and Blindness...................... 83 Moral Courage Needed............................ 84 The Tempest Is Coming............................ 85 Daily Dependence on God.......................... 85 Chapter 23 One Weak Point.......................... 87 Thought Control................................... 87 Section 3 Gaining Victories........................... 89 Chapter 24 Onward and Upward..................... 90 God Not Unreasonable.............................. 91 Develop Confidence................................ 91 Cost of Victory................................... 92 Chapter 25 Perfecting Character..................... 93 Set Your Mark High............................... 93 Cultivate Every Grace of Character................... 94 His Biddings Are Enablings......................... 94 Our Constant Dependence.......................... 94 Chapter 26 The Fight of Faith........................ 96 Living Faith...................................... 96 A Lifelong Conflict................................. 97 Chapter 27 Victory Appropriated..................... 98 Faith and Duty.................................... 99 Chapter 28 How to be Strong....................... 100 Behold His Glory................................ 100 Joy Through Repentance.......................... 101 Chapter 29 The Victorious Life..................... 102 The Dominating Influence......................... 103

viii Messages to Young People Chapter 30 Living Faith............................ 104 Do Not Depend on Feeling........................ 104 Be Not Discouraged.............................. 105 Contemplation of Christ........................... 105 Changing the Habits of Thought.................... 106 Sanctification a Daily Work........................ 106 Make Religion a Business......................... 107 Sanctification, a Progressive Experience............. 107 Value of Trials................................... 108 Secret Place of Power............................. 108 Chapter 31 Union With Christ...................... 109 Section 4 Walking in the Light........................ 111 Chapter 32 Growing in Grace....................... 112 Growth Necessary to Steadfastness.................. 112 Heart Examination............................... 113 Watch and Pray.................................. 113 Limitless Possibilities for Good.................... 114 Self-Surrender................................... 115 Chapter 33 Conformity to the World................. 116 The Broad Way.................................. 116 Preparation for Jesus Coming...................... 117 What Shall It Profit?.............................. 118 Chapter 34 Genuine Christian Experience............ 120 Saving Grace.................................... 120 The First Steps................................... 121 Opening the Way for God s Blessing................ 121 Chapter 35 Self-Discipline......................... 123 Power of Self-Control............................. 123 Ruling the Spirit................................. 124 No Excuse for Sinning............................ 125 Chapter 36 A Living Experience.................... 126 Power of the Cross............................... 126 Loyalty to Christ................................. 127 Experimental Knowledge Needed................... 128 Christian Fellowship.............................. 128 Religion Not a Sentiment.......................... 129 Chapter 37 Faithful in that which is Least............. 131 A Well-Balanced Character........................ 131

Contents ix Faithfulness in Everyday Life...................... 132 Chapter 38 Accountability for Light................. 133 Chapter 39 Earnestness of Purpose.................. 134 Co-operation with God............................ 134 Whole-hearted Service............................ 135 The Value of Concentration........................ 135 The Highest Motive.............................. 136 Abiding Joy..................................... 136 Chapter 40 Exercise of the Will..................... 137 Instability and Doubt............................. 137 Strength Through Yielding the Will................. 137 God s Will and Man s Will United.................. 138 Special Effort Essential........................... 140 Chapter 41 Divine Guidance........................ 141 Chapter 42 Silent Working of the Holy Spirit.......... 142 Evidence of Divine Aid........................... 143 Chapter 43 The Indwelling Christ................... 144 His Response to Our Faith......................... 144 Molded by His Love.............................. 144 The Pearl of Great Price........................... 145 Chapter 44 Self-Denial............................ 147 Chapter 45 The Character that God Approves......... 148 Persevering Effort Required........................ 148 Influence of Associates............................ 149 Christ Our Only Hope............................ 149 Chapter 46 Abiding Presence of Christ............... 151 Section 5 Preparation for the Life Work................ 153 Chapter 47 Christian Education..................... 154 Christ the Great Educator.......................... 154 Chapter 48 True Education......................... 156 The Essential in Education......................... 157 The Highest Education............................ 157 Chapter 49 The Need of Christian Education.......... 158 Training for Higher Service........................ 158 An All-Round Education.......................... 158 Knowledge and Self-discipline..................... 159 Meeting Expectations of Parents.................... 159 Chapter 50 Education for Eternity................... 161

x Messages to Young People Chapter 51 A Practical Training..................... 162 Symmetrical Education........................... 162 Benefit of Useful Work............................ 163 Learn How to Cook............................... 164 In the Mission Field.............................. 164 Chapter 52 Student Loyalty........................ 165 Character and Deportment......................... 165 Value of School Discipline......................... 166 Chapter 53 Student Opportunities................... 167 Helping Others.................................. 167 Thorough Mastery of Fundamentals................. 168 Chapter 54 Training for Service..................... 169 Consecrate Ability to God......................... 169 Preparation for Future Contingencies................ 170 Balanced by Right Principles....................... 170 Chapter 55 Aspiration for Improvement.............. 172 Chapter 56 True Wisdom.......................... 173 The Bible and Science............................ 173 Taught of God................................... 174 Chapter 57 Set a High Standard..................... 176 Maintain Personality.............................. 176 Whole-hearted Service............................ 177 Making the Most of Life.......................... 177 Section 6 Service................................... 179 Chapter 58 The Youth Called to Be Laborers.......... 180 Work in Faith.................................... 180 Call for Volunteers............................... 181 Chapter 59 Responsibility for Soul Winning.......... 182 Chapter 60 Witnessing for Christ.................... 183 Our Conversation................................ 183 Winning Loved Ones............................. 184 Earnestness..................................... 184 Chapter 61 Personal Work......................... 186 Chapter 62 Young People as Soul Winners............ 187 Solicitude for Others.............................. 187 A Work to Do................................... 188 Where to Begin.................................. 189 The Most Successful Way......................... 189

Contents xi Chapter 63 Service in Different Lines................ 190 Gaining Efficiency............................... 190 Chapter 64 Unselfish Service....................... 191 Chapter 65 The Reward of Diligence................. 192 The Blessing of Labor............................ 192 Helping in the Home.............................. 193 The Web of Destiny.............................. 193 Chapter 66 The Dignity of Labor.................... 195 Manual Labor Versus Games....................... 195 Christ s Example................................. 196 The Lesson of Contented Industry.................. 196 Chapter 67 Sowing Beside all Waters................ 198 The Gift of Song................................. 198 Medical Missionary Work......................... 198 Chapter 68 Many Lines of Work.................... 200 Each Has His Place............................... 200 The Sabbath School Work......................... 200 Bible Work...................................... 200 Canvassing...................................... 201 Teaching........................................ 201 Business........................................ 202 Medical Work................................... 202 The Ministry.................................... 203 Foreign Mission Work............................ 204 Youthful Service................................. 204 Chapter 69 Acceptable Service...................... 205 Our Relation to Mistakes.......................... 205 The Highest Work................................ 206 Chapter 70 Faithfulness in Service................... 207 Unfaithfulness Recorded.......................... 207 True Motives in Service........................... 208 Section 7 Health and Efficiency....................... 211 Chapter 71 The Science of Living................... 212 Health and Self-Control........................... 212 Life a Trust..................................... 213 Chapter 72 Safeguarding the Health................. 214 Chapter 73 Sacredness of Health.................... 215 Relation of Health to Character Building............. 215

xii Messages to Young People Intemperance Degrading.......................... 216 Self-Mastery a Duty.............................. 216 Chapter 74 A Balanced Education................... 217 Chapter 75 Education Obtained at Expense of Health... 218 Chapter 76 The Insignia of Nobility................. 219 Effect of Physical Habits on the Mind............... 219 Shaping Our Own Destiny......................... 220 Temperance Richly Rewarded...................... 221 Religion and Health.............................. 221 Section 8 The Devotional Life........................ 223 Chapter 77 Prayer Our Stronghold................... 224 How to Pray..................................... 224 Prayer Brings Power.............................. 225 Chapter 78 The Power of Prayer.................... 226 In Touch with the Infinite.......................... 226 Every Sincere Prayer Answered.................... 227 Chapter 79 Our Attitude in Prayer................... 228 Chapter 80 Faith and Prayer........................ 229 Chapter 81 The Value of Bible Study................ 230 The Mediatorial Work of Christ.................... 230 Intellectual Development.......................... 231 The Highest Culture.............................. 231 The Bible the Greatest Teacher..................... 232 Chapter 82 Search the Scriptures for Yourself......... 234 Chapter 83 Persevering Effort in Bible Study.......... 235 Open-Mindedness................................ 235 The Knowledge of God s Will...................... 236 Reverence in Bible Study.......................... 236 Chapter 84 The Reward of Diligent Bible Study....... 238 The Bible a Guide................................ 238 Chapter 85 The Bible as an Educator................. 239 The Voice of the Eternal........................... 239 True Philosophy of Life........................... 239 Chapter 86 Reverence............................. 241 Conduct in the House of God...................... 241 Trifling Regarding Religious Things................. 242 Chapter 87 A Well-Grounded Hope.................. 244 Section 9 Reading and Music......................... 245

Contents xiii Chapter 88 Choice of Reading...................... 246 Influence of Unwholesome Reading................. 246 Enemies to Spirituality............................ 246 The Book of Books............................... 247 Chapter 89 Example of the Ephesians................ 249 The Magic Books of Today........................ 249 Mind Unfitted for Solemn Thought.................. 250 Misleading Books................................ 250 Breaking the Spell of Satan s Sorcery................ 251 Chapter 90 Proper Mental Food..................... 252 Results of Reading Fiction......................... 252 Mental Inebriates................................ 253 The Remedy.................................... 254 First Steps in Sin................................. 254 Chapter 91 The Bible the Most Interesting Book....... 255 The Portrayal of Sin.............................. 255 Chapter 92 Guard Well the Avenues of the Soul....... 257 The Chaff and the Wheat.......................... 258 Chapter 93 Building Christian Character............. 259 Selected Course of Reading Recommended........... 259 Chapter 94 The Effect of Fiction.................... 262 Chapter 95 The Benefits of Music................... 263 Music a Precious Gift............................. 263 Chapter 96 Uses of Music.......................... 265 A Talent of Influence............................. 265 In Tune with Heavenly Musicians................... 265 God Glorified by Songs........................... 266 Chapter 97 A Wrong Use of Music.................. 267 Music a Power for Good.......................... 268 Section 10 Stewardship.............................. 269 Chapter 98 Lessons in Economy.................... 270 Saving for Missions.............................. 270 Self-Denial...................................... 270 Proper Use of Talents............................. 271 No Time to Lose................................. 272 The Reward of Sacrifice........................... 272 Chapter 99 Spirit of Sacrifice....................... 273 Signs of Grace in the Heart........................ 273

xiv Messages to Young People Chapter 100 The Tithe............................. 274 Recognition of God s Ownership................... 275 Belongs to God.................................. 275 Chapter 101 Honor the Lord With Thy Substance.... 276 Treasures in Heaven.............................. 276 Without Excuse.................................. 277 The Tithe....................................... 277 Chapter 102 Individual Responsibility............... 279 Value of Money.................................. 280 Chapter 103 Holiday Presents...................... 281 Evils of Self-Indulgence........................... 281 Gifts to God..................................... 282 Chapter 104 Economy in Dress..................... 283 Self-Denial Pleasing to God........................ 284 The Love of Display.............................. 284 Puritan Plainness................................. 284 Chapter 105 Self-Gratification...................... 286 A Species of Idolatry............................. 286 First Things First................................. 286 Duty of Self-Denial............................... 287 Repeated Taking of Pictures....................... 288 Chapter 106 Economy and Benevolence.............. 289 Open Doors of Usefulness......................... 289 Saving the Fragments............................. 290 Guide to Economy............................... 290 Section 11 The Home Life........................... 293 Chapter 107 A Christian Household................. 294 Chapter 108 Faithfulness in Home Duties............. 295 Chapter 109 Home Religion........................ 296 Unkind Speech in the Home....................... 296 The Home an Object Lesson....................... 297 Chapter 110 The Home a Training School............ 298 Everyday Duties................................. 298 The Mother s Reward............................. 298 Possibilities of Home Training..................... 299 Chapter 111 Respect and Love for Parents............ 300 A Destiny in Obedience........................... 300 Chapter 112 A Blessing in the Home................. 302

Contents xv Obedience to Parents............................. 302 Chapter 113 Building Character at Home............. 304 Making Parents Happy............................ 304 Strength for the Conflict........................... 305 Impatience at Restraint............................ 306 Individual Responsibility.......................... 306 Clothed with Christ s Righteousness................ 306 Chapter 114 Youth to Bear Responsibilities........... 307 Making Home Happy............................. 307 Chapter 115 The Hour of Worship................... 309 Chapter 116 Religious Hospitality................... 310 Section 12 Dress and Adornment...................... 311 Chapter 117 Elements in Character Building.......... 312 True Adornment................................. 312 Outward Appearance............................. 313 Witnessing...................................... 314 Religion Judged by Dress.......................... 314 Chapter 118 Dress and Character.................... 315 Relation to Fashions.............................. 315 Chapter 119 Proper Dress.......................... 317 Economy in Dress................................ 317 Quality and Taste................................ 317 Health and Cleanliness............................ 318 Grace and Natural Beauty......................... 318 Chapter 120 Influence of Dress..................... 319 Chapter 121 Simplicity in Dress..................... 320 A Snare to God s People.......................... 320 Reformation Needed.............................. 321 The Inward Adorning............................. 322 Chapter 122 Idolatry of Dress....................... 323 Chapter 123 True Adornment....................... 324 Following the World.............................. 324 Section 13 Recreation and Amusement................. 327 Chapter 124 The Value of Recreation................ 328 Christian Recreation.............................. 328 Love of the Beautiful............................. 329 The Master Artist................................ 330 Unfitted to Resist Temptation...................... 330

xvi Messages to Young People Chapter 125 The Love of Worldly Pleasure........... 331 The Way of Wisdom.............................. 331 Faithfulness in Little Things....................... 332 Unsatisfied Longings............................. 333 Opportunities for Witnessing....................... 333 Chapter 126 Words of Counsel...................... 334 Chapter 127 Dangerous Amusements for the Young.... 336 An Unfortunate Age.............................. 336 A Time of Trial Before the Young................... 338 Separation from the World......................... 338 Promises to the Young............................ 339 Chapter 128 Establishing Right Principles in the Youth. 341 Relaxation and Amusement........................ 341 Provide Innocent Pleasures........................ 342 Recreation in Missionary Work..................... 343 Chapter 129 Unholy Influences at Work.............. 344 Chapter 130 Joy in Religion........................ 345 The Example of Jesus............................. 346 Chapter 131 Christian Recreation................... 347 Principles Contrasted............................. 347 Chapter 132 Social Gatherings...................... 349 Lack of Spirituality Revealed...................... 349 Subtle Influences................................. 350 The Antidote for Frivolity......................... 351 Acceptable Social Gatherings...................... 351 Chapter 133 How to Spend Holidays................. 353 Christian Sources of Pleasure...................... 354 Chapter 134 Literary Societies...................... 355 Chapter 135 Dancing.............................. 358 In the Path of Dissipation.......................... 358 The Danger of Amusements....................... 359 Guided by Principle.............................. 359 Section 14 Social Relations........................... 361 Chapter 136 Social to Save......................... 362 Association Influences Destiny..................... 363 Chapter 137 Christian Sociability and Courtesy........ 364 Chapter 138 Guiding Principles..................... 366 The Prodigal.................................... 366

Contents xvii God s Gracious Invitation......................... 367 Surrounded by God s Mercies...................... 368 Chapter 139 The Influence of Association............ 369 The Measure of Strength.......................... 370 Trustworthy and Faithful.......................... 372 Chapter 140 Influence............................. 373 Our Responsibility............................... 373 Chapter 141 The Choice of Companions.............. 375 Chapter 142 The Golden Rule...................... 376 Chapter 143 True Refinement....................... 377 True Courtesy Needed............................ 377 Choice of Companions............................ 378 Chapter 144 Rejecting Worldly Associations.......... 379 Our Words a Source of Help....................... 379 Our Influence.................................... 380 Chapter 145 Exalted Conversation................... 381 The Reason for Low Standards..................... 381 Need of Heavenly-Mindedness..................... 382 A Vigorous Process of Sanctification................ 383 Chapter 146 Sowing Wild Oats..................... 384 Temptation...................................... 384 Vain Amusement Not True Happiness............... 385 Chapter 147 Irreligious Visitors..................... 387 Section 15 Courtship and Marriage.................... 389 Chapter 148 True Love............................ 390 Seeking Counsel................................. 390 Choice of Companions............................ 391 Chapter 149 Wrong Forms of Courtship.............. 392 Influence on Religious Experience.................. 392 Early Marriages.................................. 393 Chapter 150 Engagement With Unbelievers........... 394 Tests of Love.................................... 394 Results of Disobedience........................... 395 A Broken Engagement............................ 396 Mature Judgment Essential........................ 396 Chapter 151 Need of Counsel and Guidance.......... 397 A Perfect Guide.................................. 397 Honorable Conduct............................... 398

xviii Messages to Young People Need of Sound Judgment.......................... 400 Parents to Be Consulted........................... 400 Treatment of Mother an Index...................... 402 Impulse Not Reliable............................. 402 Divine Love..................................... 403 Chapter 152 Premature Marriage.................... 404 The Danger of Early Attachments................... 404 Chapter 153 Marriages, Wise and Unwise............ 405 Unequally Yoked................................. 405 Proper Association............................... 406 Hasty Marriages................................. 406 Influenced to Marriage by Satan.................... 406 Chapter 154 Marrying and Giving in Marriage........ 408 Unholy Infatuation............................... 408 Violating the Laws of Health and Modesty........... 409 Disregard for Counsel............................. 410 Characteristics of True Love....................... 410 Seeking Divine Guidance.......................... 411 Chapter 155 Responsibilities of Marriage............. 412 Chapter 156 Good Judgment and Self-Control in Marriage 413 Looking Ahead.................................. 413 The Domination of Passion........................ 413 Necessity of Self-Control.......................... 414 Chapter 157 The Example of Isaac.................. 415

Introduction

Chapter 1 Building Character for Eternity [16] I have a deep interest in the youth, and I greatly desire to see them striving to perfect Christian characters, seeking by diligent study and earnest prayer to gain the training essential for acceptable service in the cause of God. I long to see them helping one another to reach a higher plane of Christian experience. Christ came to teach the human family the way of salvation, and He made this way so plain that a little child can walk in it. He bids His disciples follow on to know the Lord; and as they daily follow His guidance, they learn that His going forth is prepared as the morning. You have watched the rising sun, and the gradual break of day over earth and sky. Little by little the dawn increases, till the sun appears; then the light grows constantly stronger and clearer until the full glory of noontide is reached. This is a beautiful illustration of what God desires to do for His children in perfecting their Christian experience. As we walk day by day in the light He sends us, in willing obedience to all His requirements, our experience grows and broadens until we reach the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. The youth need to keep ever before them the course that Christ followed. At every step it was a course of overcoming. Christ did not come to the earth as a king, to rule the nations. He came as a humble man, to be tempted, and to overcome temptation, to follow on, as we must, to know the Lord. In the study of His life we shall learn how much God through Him will do for His children. And we shall learn that, however great our trials may be, they cannot exceed what Christ endured that we might know the way, the truth, and the life. By a life of conformity to His example, we are to show our appreciation of His sacrifice in our behalf. The youth have been bought with an infinite price, even the blood of the Son of God. Consider the sacrifice of the Father in permitting His Son to make this sacrifice. Consider what Christ gave up when 20

Building Character for Eternity 21 He left the courts of heaven and the royal throne, to give His life a daily sacrifice for men. He suffered reproach and abuse. He bore all the insult and mockery that wicked men could heap upon Him. And when His earthly ministry was accomplished, He suffered the death of the cross. Consider His sufferings on the cross, the nails driven into His hands and feet, the derision and abuse from those [17] He came to save, the hiding of His Father s face. But it was by all this that Christ made it possible for all who will to have the life that measures with the life of God. A Faithful Friend When Christ ascended to the Father, He did not leave His followers without help. The Holy Spirit, as His representative, and the heavenly angels, as ministering spirits, are sent forth to aid those who against great odds are fighting the good fight of faith. Ever remember that Jesus is your helper. No one understands as well as He your peculiarities of character. He is watching over you, and if you are willing to be guided by Him, He will throw around you influences for good that will enable you to accomplish all His will for you. In this life we are preparing for the future life. Soon there is to be a grand review, in which every soul who is seeking to perfect a Christian character must bear the test of God s searching questions: Have you set an example that others were safe in following? Have you watched for souls as those that must give an account? The heavenly host are interested in the youth; and they are intensely desirous that you will bear the test, and that to you will be spoken the words of approval, Well done, good and faithful servant;... [18] enter thou into the joy of thy Lord. Let the youth remember that here they are to build characters for eternity, and that God requires them to do their best. Let those older in experience watch over the younger ones; and when they see them tempted, take them aside, and pray with them and for them. The Lord would have us recognize the great sacrifice of Christ for us by showing an interest in the salvation of those He came to save. If the youth will seek Christ, He will make their efforts effectual. Mrs. E. G. White, The Youth s Instructor, November 21, 1911. [19]

22 Messages to Young People

Section 1 God s Purpose for the Youth In order that the work may go forward in all its branches, God calls for youthful vigor, zeal, and courage. He has chosen the youth to aid in the advancement of His cause. To plan with clear mind and execute with courageous hand demands fresh, uncrippled energies. Young men and women are invited to give God the strength of their youth, that through the exercise of their powers, through keen thought and vigorous action, they may bring glory to Him and salvation to their fellow-men. (Gospel Workers, 67.) [20]

[21] [22] Chapter 2 A Call to the Youth God wants the youth to become men of earnest mind, to be prepared for action in His noble work, and fitted to bear responsibilities. God calls for young men with hearts uncorrupted, strong and brave, and determined to fight manfully in the struggle before them, that they may glorify God, and bless humanity. If the youth would but make the Bible their study, would but calm their impetuous desires, and listen to the voice of their Creator and Redeemer, they would not only be at peace with God, but would find themselves ennobled and elevated. It will be for your eternal interest, my young friend, to give heed to the instructions in the word of God, for they are of inestimable importance to you. I entreat you to be wise, and consider what will be the result of leading a wild life, uncontrolled by the Spirit of God. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption. For your soul s sake, for Christ s sake, who gave Himself to save you from ruin, pause on the threshold of your life, and weigh well your responsibilities, your opportunities, your possibilities. God has given you an opportunity to fill a high destiny. Your influence may tell for the truth of God; you may be a co-laborer with God in the great work of human redemption... Called to a High Destiny O that young men might appreciate the high destiny to which they are called! Ponder well the paths of your feet. Begin your work with high and holy purpose, and be determined that through the power of the grace of God, you will not diverge from the path of rectitude. If you begin to go in a wrong direction, every step will be fraught with peril and disaster, and you will go on straying from the path of truth, safety, and success. You need your intellect strengthened, your moral energies quickened, by divine power. 24

Call to the Youth 25 The cause of God demands the highest powers of the being, and there is urgent need in many fields for young men of literary qualifications. There is need of men who can be trusted to labor in extensive fields that are now white to the harvest. Young men of ordinary ability, who give themselves wholly to God, who are uncorrupted by vice and impurity, will be successful, and will be enabled to do a great work for God. Let young men heed the admonition, and be sober-minded. How many youth have wasted their God-given strength in folly and dissipation! How many painful histories rise before me of youth who have become mere wrecks of humanity, mentally, morally, physically, because of indulgence in vicious habits! Their constitutions are ruined, their life usefulness greatly impaired, because of indulgence in unlawful pleasures. I entreat of you, careless, reckless youth of today, be converted, and become laborers together with God. Let it be the study of your [23] life to bless and save others. If you seek help from God, His power working in you will bring to naught all opposing powers, and you will become sanctified through the truth. Sin is alarmingly prevalent among the youth of today, but let it be your purpose to do what you can to rescue souls from the power of Satan. Be Light Bearers Carry light wherever you go; show that you have strength of purpose, that you are not a person of indecision, easily swayed by the persuasions of evil associates. Do not yield a ready assent to the suggestions of those who dishonor God, but rather seek to reform, reclaim, and rescue souls from evil. Resort to prayer, persuade in meekness and lowliness of spirit those who oppose themselves. One soul saved from error, and brought under the banner of Christ, will cause joy in heaven, and place a star in your crown of rejoicing. A soul saved will, through his godly influence, bring other souls to a knowledge of salvation, and thus the work will multiply, and only the revealings of the day of judgment will make manifest the extent of the work. Do not hesitate to work for the Lord because you think you can do but little. Do your little with fidelity; for God will work with your

26 Messages to Young People [24] efforts. He will write your name in the book of life as one worthy to enter into the joy of the Lord. Let us earnestly entreat the Lord that laborers may be raised up, for the fields are white to the harvest; the harvest is great, and the laborers are few... Cherished Broad Ideas Young men should have broad ideas, wise plans, that they may make the most of their opportunities, catch the inspiration and courage that animated the apostles. John says, I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. An elevated standard is presented before the youth, and God is inviting them to come into real service for Him. True-hearted young men who delight to be learners in the school of Christ, can do a great work for the Master, if they will only give heed to the command of the Captain as it sounds down along the lines to our time, Quit you like men, be strong. You are to be men who will walk humbly with God, who will stand before Him in your God-given manhood, free from impurity, free from all contamination from the sensuality that is corrupting this age. You must be men who will despise all falsity and wickedness, who will dare to be true and brave, holding aloft the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. Your talents will increase as you use them for the Master, and they will be esteemed precious by Him who has bought them with an infinite price. Do not sit down and neglect to do anything, simply because you cannot do some great thing, but do whatever your hands find to do, with thoroughness and energy.... The Call to Enlist [25] Christ is calling for volunteers to enlist under His standard, and bear the banner of the cross before the world. The church is languishing for the help of young men who will bear a courageous testimony, who will with their ardent zeal stir up the sluggish energies of God s people, and so increase the power of the church in the world. Young men are wanted who will resist the tide of worldliness, and lift a

Call to the Youth 27 voice of warning against taking the first steps in immorality and vice. But first the young men who would serve God, and give themselves to His work, must cleanse the soul temple of all impurity, and enthrone Christ in the heart; then they will be enabled to put energy into their Christian effort, and will manifest enthusiastic zeal in persuading men to be reconciled to Christ. Will not our young men respond to the invitation of Christ, and answer, Here am I; send me? Young men, press to the front, and identify yourselves as laborers together with Christ, taking up the work where He left it, to carry it on to its completion. The Review and Herald, June 16, 1891. Essential Elements of Character God does not bid the youth to be less aspiring. The elements of character that make a man successful and honored among men, the irrepressible desire for some greater good, the indomitable will, the strenuous exertion, the untiring perseverance, are not to be crushed out. Patriarchs and Prophets, 602. [26]

Chapter 3 Seeking to Please Him [27] The Lord has a special work to do for us individually. As we see the wickedness of the world brought to light in the courts of justice and published in the daily papers, let us draw near to God, and by living faith lay hold of His promises, that the grace of Christ may be manifest in us. We may have an influence, a powerful influence, in the world. If the convicting power of God is with us, we shall be enabled to lead souls that are in sin to conversion. Our simplicity will accomplish much in this work. We are not to try to climb up to high positions or to gain the praise of men. Our aim should not be to be the greatest. We are to have an eye single to the glory of God. We are to work with all the intelligence that God has given us, placing ourselves in the channel of light, that the grace of God can come upon us to mold and fashion us to the divine similitude. Heaven is waiting to bestow its richest blessings upon those who will consecrate themselves to do the work of God in these last days of the world s history. We shall be tested and tried; we may be called to spend wakeful nights; but let such times be spent in earnest prayer to God, that He may give understanding, and quicken the mind to discern the privileges that are ours. The Review and Herald, April 1, 1909. 28

Chapter 4 Standards of Success The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Many of our youth do not feel the necessity of bringing their powers into vigorous exercise to do their best at all times and under all circumstances. They do not have the fear of God before their eyes, and their thoughts are not pure and elevated. All heaven is cognizant of every thought and every action. Your actions may be unseen by your associates, but they are all open to the inspection of angels. The angels are commissioned to minister unto those who are striving to overcome every wrong habit, and stand clear from the devices of Satan. Faithful Integrity The power of little acts of evil, of small inconsistencies to mold character, are not estimated as they should be. The grandest and most elevated principles are revealed to us in the Word of God. They are given to us to strengthen every effort for good, to control and balance the mind, to lead us to aspire to reach a high standard. In the history of Joseph, Daniel, and his fellows, we see how the golden chain of truth may bind the youth to the throne of God. They could not be tempted to turn aside from their course of integrity. They valued the favor of God above the favor and praise of princes, and God loved them and spread His shield over them. Because of their faithful integrity, because of their determination to honor God [28] above every human power, the Lord signally honored them before men. They were honored by the Lord God of hosts, whose power is over all the works of His hand in heaven above and the earth beneath. These youth were not ashamed to display their true colors. Even in the court of the king, in their words, their habits, their practices, they confessed their faith in the Lord God of heaven. They refused to bow to any earthly mandate that detracted from the honor of God. They had strength from heaven to confess their allegiance to God. 29

30 Messages to Young People You should be prepared to follow the example of these noble youth. Never be ashamed of your colors; put them on, unfurl them to the gaze of men and angels. Do not be controlled by false modesty, by false prudence which suggests to you a course of action contrary to this advice. By your choice words and a consistent course of action, by your propriety, your earnest piety, make a telling confession of your faith, determined that Christ shall occupy the throne in the soul temple; and lay your talents without reserve at His feet to be employed in His service. Complete Consecration [29] For your present and eternal good it is best to commit yourself wholly to the right, that the world may know where you are standing. Many are not wholly committed to the cause of God, and their position of wavering is a source of weakness in itself, and a stone of stumbling to others. With principles unsettled, unconsecrated as they are, the waves of temptation sweep them away from what they know to be right, and they do not make holy endeavor to overcome every wrong, and through the imputed righteousness of Christ, perfect a righteous character. The world has a right to know just what may be expected from every intelligent human being. He who is a living embodiment of firm, decided, righteous principles, will be a living power upon his associates; and he will influence others by his Christianity. Many do not discern and appreciate how great is the influence of each one for good or evil. Every student should understand that the principles which he adopts become a living, molding influence upon character. He who accepts Christ as his personal Saviour, will love Jesus, and all for whom Christ has died; for Christ will be in him a well of water springing up unto everlasting life. He will surrender himself without reservation to the rule of Christ. Assert Your Liberty Make it the law of your life from which no temptation or side interest shall cause you to turn, to honor God, because He so loved the world, that He gave his only-begotten Son, that whosoever